Firefighters Continue Battling Lightning Fires Despite Extreme Conditions

Medford, Oregon- Fire crews in Southern Oregon are continuing to make progress on a series of lightning-sparked wildfires despite facing extreme weather conditions, steep terrain, and persistent hot spots.

ODF Complex Incident Management Team 3 remains in command of the Grizzly Complex, a group of lightning-caused fires that began on July 7. All fires within the complex are currently 100% lined and are in various stages of mop-up. Crews are focused on reinforcing containment lines, extinguishing hot spots, and removing hazardous snags—dead standing trees that pose safety threats.

With temperatures soaring into the triple digits, relative humidity at critically low levels, and gusty winds in the area, the risk for flare-ups and new ignitions remains high. In response, aerial resources today delivered large water bladders to remote areas to aid in extinguishing difficult-to-access hot spots. Helicopters also conducted water bucket drops to cool hot zones. Fire officials stressed that the use of drones near active wildfires is illegal and poses serious dangers to aircraft operations. Any unauthorized drone activity will be reported to law enforcement.

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office lifted the Level 1 evacuation notice for zones JAC-325B and JAC-326, following improved conditions near the Heppsie Mountain and Poole Hill fires. However, Level 2 “Be Set” notices remain in effect for zones JAC-542, JAC-543, JAC-546, JAC-558, and JAC-559. Zone JAC-536 remains at Level 1 “Be Ready.” Up-to-date evacuation information can be found at protect.genasys.com.

A southbound lane closure on I-5 between mile markers 8.5 and 10.5 remains in place to ensure firefighter safety. Travelers are urged to check tripcheck.com for the latest traffic updates.

Although progress continues on the current fires, crews remain ready to respond to new starts within the complex area. Officials are urging residents and visitors to follow current fire restrictions to help prevent additional wildfires.